This meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic, filled with gooey mozzarella cheese in the middle! It’s juicy, savory, and super comforting—perfect for family dinner.
Who doesn’t love a surprise in their meatloaf? The stretchy cheese is like a little gift waiting to be found. I always serve it with some mashed potatoes for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend keeps the meatloaf juicy, but leaner beef (like 90/10) is fine if you’re watching fat intake. Ground turkey or chicken also works for a lighter option!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor, but regular plain breadcrumbs can do the job. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free alternatives available at most stores.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic provide depth of flavor. In a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can substitute, but fresh is best for that aromatic taste.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my favorite for its meltiness, but you can also use provolone or cheddar for a different twist. Just be sure it melts well!
Ketchup: While I love a ketchup glaze, you can also use barbecue sauce or a mix of ketchup and mustard for a zesty topping.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Holds Together?
One common struggle with meatloaf is getting it to hold its shape. Here are some tips:
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture—it should just be combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan or shape it into a loaf. This keeps it compact.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking before slicing it. This lets the juices redistribute and helps it hold its shape!
Following these steps will help you achieve a beautifully structured meatloaf with gooey, cheesy goodness inside! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella sticks sliced lengthwise)
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and 50 to 60 minutes for baking. Plus, let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. Altogether, you can expect around 1 hour and 15 minutes until you’re ready to dig into a delicious slice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup!
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, dried Italian herbs, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Stir everything until it’s just combined—don’t overmix!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Divide the meat mixture into two equal parts. On a clean surface or a piece of wax paper, press one half into a loaf shape that fits your pan. This will form the bottom layer.
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of your first layer of meat, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges to prevent leaks. You could also use mozzarella sticks cut lengthwise for a fun effect!
5. Seal the Meatloaf:
Now, take the second half of your meat mixture and carefully press it on top of the cheese layer. Make sure to pinch the edges together so the cheese stays inside.
6. Get Ready to Bake:
Transfer the stuffed meatloaf to your prepared loaf pan or place it on the baking sheet. Spread the ketchup evenly on top for a tasty glaze.
7. Bake It:
Put the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You want it cooked through, but juicy!
8. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to settle, making it easier to slice.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, slice your meatloaf and serve it warm. The molten mozzarella center will be a delightful surprise! Pair it with mash potatoes or fresh veggies for a complete meal.
And there you have it—a deliciously cheesy, savory meatloaf that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lower-fat alternative. Just be aware that it may cook a little differently, so keep an eye on the internal temperature and adjust cooking time if necessary.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, provolone or cheddar cheese are excellent substitutes! Keep in mind that different cheeses will provide varying flavors and textures, but they will still melt beautifully.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices of meatloaf for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together nicely!
